How to Remove Contact Paper from Metal Cabinets

Removing contact paper from metal cabinets can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be done effectively. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove contact paper from metal cabinets.

Introduction

Contact paper, also known as adhesive paper or sticky back plastic, is often used to line shelves and drawers in cabinets to make them look more attractive. It provides a quick and easy way to freshen up old cabinets without having to repaint them. However, over time contact paper can peel, tear, or become dirty. Replacing old contact paper with new contact paper is not always an ideal solution, as the adhesive residue left behind can make it difficult for new contact paper to stick properly. The best approach is to thoroughly remove all traces of the old contact paper prior to applying new paper. This allows for the new contact paper to adhere evenly and properly. Removing contact paper completely can be challenging, but following some simple techniques can make the process easier.

Gather the Right Tools

Removing contact paper requires having the right tools on hand. Here are the recommended supplies:

• Putty knife or paint scraper – helps lift edges and scrape off paper
• Reusable plastic scraper – won’t scratch surfaces
• Cheesecloth or rags – for wiping away adhesive residue
• Mineral spirits or adhesive remover – helps loosen sticky residue
• Masking tape – covers sections not being worked on
• Soft scrub cleanser – removes final sticky spots

Having all these items ready beforehand streamlines the removal process. Be sure to have plenty of scraper blades and rags as they will become gunky during the project.

Prepare the Workspace

Before starting removal, properly prepare the workspace:

• Clear countertops or floor area where cabinets will be worked on
• Remove cabinet doors and drawers to make accessing the interior easier
• Cover any nearby surfaces, like floors or appliances, in case of drips
• Have a trash bag ready for discarded contact paper, rags, scraper blades, etc.
• Work in a well-ventilated area since chemical removers have fumes
• Turn on bright lights to illuminate work area

Preparing a clean clutter-free workspace saves time and frustration.

Loosen Edges

Start removal by gently loosening the contact paper edges using the putty knife or paint scraper. Take care not to gouge or scratch the cabinet’s surface.

• Wedge putty knife blade under corner edge and gently lift
• Slowly work around all edges, separating paper from cabinet
• Apply even pressure as you lift; don’t aggressively pry up
• If paper tears, leave remnant attached until rest of sheet is lifted

Focus on taking your time and not tearing the paper. Once top edges are freed, move to next section.

Slowly Peel Off Paper

After edges are loosened, begin slowly peeling away the contact paper sheet by sheet.

• Pull paper back horizontally rather than ripping upwards
• Maintain a low angle to minimize sticking
• Carefully pull paper off and discard as you work
• If adhesive residue is left behind, scrape with plastic scraper
• Use mineral spirits on stubborn areas of residue
• Reapply spirit and scrape until section is residue-free

Take care when peeling not to rip paper. Any tears make removal more difficult.

Use Adhesive Remover as Needed

If mineral spirits alone don’t remove all the contact paper adhesive, use an adhesive remover product.

• Apply a small amount of remover directly onto sticky residue
• Let sit for several minutes so chemicals can react with adhesive
• Wipe away with clean rag once residue appears dissolved
• Avoid letting remover sit too long or drip elsewhere
• Follow product directions closely and work in a ventilated space

Test remover on a hidden spot first to ensure it doesn’t damage the cabinet finish.

Remove Final Sticky Spots

For any last sticky spots, use a soft scrub cleanser and a little elbow grease.

• Dip clean rag into warm water mixed with a small amount of cleanser
• Gently rub rag over adhesive area using small circular motions
• Rinse rag frequently to keep it lubricated and sticky-free
• Continually wipe area until all residue is lifted
• Rinse scrubbed spot with clean damp rag when finished
• Allow cabinet surface to fully dry once clean

Avoid harsh scrubbing or using too much pressure during this step.

Prevent Future Buildup

Once old contact paper is fully removed, prevent future adhesive buildup by:

• Cleaning any leftover residue with mineral spirits
• Lightly sanding cabinets using fine grit sandpaper
• Applying primer/sealer so new contact paper won’t stick to bare cabinet
• Using low-tack removable contact paper rather than permanent
• Swapping paper out more frequently, like every 1-2 years

Take steps beforehand to simplify future contact paper removal down the road.

Tips and Warnings

• Work slowly and gently to avoid ripping contact paper
• Don’t allow adhesive remover to soak into bare wood surfaces
• Test removal methods in inconspicuous spot first
• Keep mineral spirits away from open flames or sparks
• Allow treated areas to fully dry before re-lining cabinets
• Wear gloves to protect hands from drying chemicals
• Ventilate workspace if using chemical removers

Following these tips makes removing contact paper from metal cabinets much easier. Avoid rushing the process. With some perseverance, you can get those cabinets looking fresh and renewed again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to remove contact paper?

The easiest method is to first loosen all the edges with a putty knife, then slowly peel off the paper sheet by sheet. Go slowly and be patient. Use a plastic scraper on any residual adhesive.

What removes contact paper adhesive residue?

Mineral spirits work well for dissolving contact paper adhesive. Gently wipe on and let sit for a few minutes before rubbing off. Adhesive remover products also work very effectively.

What can I use if mineral spirits don’t get all the residue off?

Try an adhesive remover made specifically for eliminating things like contact paper glue. Products like Goo Gone help get rid of residue mineral spirits leave behind.

Can I use WD-40 to remove contact paper adhesive?

Yes, WD-40 can help dissolve contact paper adhesive residue. Spray a small amount on the sticky area, let it penetrate for 5 minutes, then wipe clean with a rag.

What kind of cleaner removes contact paper glue?

Soft scrub cleansers work well for removing the last sticky spots and residue. Use with warm water and gently rub with a rag using circular motions until adhesive is gone.

Conclusion

Removing old contact paper from metal cabinets takes some work, but is doable with the proper steps. Make sure to have the right tools on hand like a putty knife, plastic scraper, rags, adhesive remover, and scrub cleanser. Loosen the paper edges first, then slowly peel off sheets. Use mineral spirits or adhesive remover for residue. Finally, scrub any last sticky spots clean. Now you can tackle contact paper removal from metal cabinets like a pro!